Nursing in Georgia

Georgia’s nursing education system serves a broad and varied population, with 79 nursing schools spread across 90 cities. This geographic diversity means you can find programs both in large metro areas like Atlanta, Augusta, and Savannah and in smaller towns facing rural healthcare shortages. The state’s nursing workforce supports some of the Southeast’s largest hospital systems, including Emory Healthcare, Piedmont Healthcare, and Wellstar Health System. These employers influence local demand for nurses and shape the types of training programs in the region.

The state’s average NCLEX pass rate stands at 88.3%, a figure that has remained relatively steady over recent years. While this is near the national average, pass rates vary between schools, ranging from about 82.6% to 92.1%. Some nursing programs in Georgia, especially those run by for-profit schools or newer institutions, have faced challenges maintaining higher pass rates. As a student, this information matters because passing the NCLEX is essential to earning your license and entering the field. You should look closely at individual program outcomes when choosing a school.

Georgia does not participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact. This means if you get your license here, you generally cannot work as a nurse in other states without getting licensed in each of those states separately. This contrasts with many neighboring states where compact membership allows more flexibility for cross-state work.

Salary and job opportunities in Georgia’s nursing market reflect a wide range of practice settings and costs of living. Registered nurses in Georgia earn an average salary of about $90,000 annually, with entry-level or rural positions paying closer to $63,450 and highly experienced or specialized nurses, particularly in urban areas, reaching upwards of $124,330. Licensed practical nurses make less, averaging just over $55,000 per year. Advanced practice nurses, including nurse practitioners, certified registered nurse anesthetists, and nurse-midwives, command higher wages. For example, CRNAs are some of the highest-paid healthcare professionals in the state, earning over $200,000 on average.

The cost of nursing education in Georgia varies depending on the program type and whether you attend a community college or a private institution. LPN programs can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000, making them a relatively affordable way to start a nursing career. Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs typically range from $10,000 to $20,000. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs can run from $20,000 to $40,000 or more; public state universities tend to be less expensive than private colleges. Community colleges in Georgia offer more affordable ADN and LPN options, but you will likely pay more for BSN degrees at four-year institutions.

Overall, Georgia’s nursing education landscape reflects the state’s diverse economy and healthcare needs. Being aware of pass rate trends, licensure limits, local employer expectations, and the true costs of different programs will help you make informed decisions about your nursing education.